If you’ve received a traffic ticket in Ontario, you may be offered an Early Resolution Meeting (ERM). At first glance, it sounds appealing: talk to the prosecutor, possibly reduce the charge, and avoid court stress. But is it always the right choice?

Here is the break down the pros and cons of an early resolution meeting in Ontario, explain how it works, and help you decide whether it’s a smart strategy or one that could cost you more in the long run.

What Is an Early Resolution Meeting in Ontario?

An Early Resolution Meeting is an informal meeting with a prosecutor offered under the Provincial Offences process in Ontario. Instead of going straight to trial, you meet (often virtually) to discuss your ticket and see if a resolution can be reached.

Typical outcomes may include:

• A reduced fine
• A lesser charge
• Fewer demerit points
• Or confirmation that the charge will proceed as issued

This option is usually requested within 15 days of receiving a ticket.

The Pros of an Early Resolution Meeting

Faster and Less Stressful Than Court

Early resolution meetings are generally quicker than waiting months (or even years) for a trial. There’s no formal courtroom setting, which many drivers find less intimidating.

Possible Reduction of Charges or Fines

Prosecutors may agree to:

• Reduce speeding charges
• Drop demerit points
• Lower fines

This can be helpful for minor violations or first-time offenders.

Lower Immediate Legal Costs

For some drivers, early resolution avoids hiring a paralegal or lawyer—at least initially—which can feel like a cost-saving decision.

Predictable Outcome

If you dislike uncertainty, early resolution provides clarity. You’ll know the result quickly instead of waiting months for a trial decision.

The Cons of an Early Resolution Meeting (Often Overlooked)

You’re Still Pleading Guilty

This is the biggest downside. An early resolution almost always involves pleading guilty to a charge—reduced or not. That means:

• The conviction goes on your driving record
• Insurance companies can see it
• Premium increases may follow

A reduced fine does not mean reduced insurance impact.

Insurance Consequences Can Be Costly

Many drivers focus on the ticket cost and forget insurance. A single conviction can increase premiums for 3 years or more, potentially costing thousands—far more than the original fine.

No Evidence Review Like a Trial

In an early resolution meeting:

• You don’t challenge the officer’s evidence
• Disclosure issues are rarely addressed
• Technical or procedural errors may go unnoticed

If your ticket has weaknesses, you may give up a strong defense too soon.

Limited Negotiation Power

Prosecutors are not required to offer a deal. Some meetings result in no reduction at all, leaving you with the same charge—but now without trial leverage.

Missed Opportunity to Withdraw or Dismiss

At trial, tickets can sometimes be withdrawn due to:

• Officer non-attendance
• Disclosure delays
• Charter or procedural issues

Early resolution removes these possibilities entirely.

When an Early Resolution Meeting May Make Sense

An early resolution meeting can be reasonable if:

• The charge is very minor
• You have no prior convictions
• Insurance impact is minimal or irrelevant (e.g., non-driving employment)
• You value speed and closure over long-term savings

It can also be useful as a fact-finding step—but only if you understand the consequences.

When It’s Usually Better to Fight the Ticket

You should strongly reconsider early resolution if:

• The charge carries demerit points
• You rely on affordable insurance (most drivers do)
• You already have tickets on your record
• The ticket could affect employment (drivers, delivery, trades)

In these cases, going to trial—or consulting a licensed paralegal first—can be financially smarter.

Final Verdict: Convenience vs. Consequences

An early resolution meeting in Ontario is convenient, but convenience often comes at a price. While it may save time upfront, it can cost far more through insurance increases and a permanent conviction record.

Before choosing early resolution, look beyond the fine. The real question isn’t “Can I reduce this ticket?”—it’s “What will this cost me over the next three years?”

Smart drivers don’t just pay tickets – they protect their record.

Carlos Perdomo, Paralegal